What is a "sprat"?

A sprat is a small, silvery fish found in both saltwater and freshwater environments. They belong to the herring family and are known for their slender bodies and iridescent scales. Sprats are highly abundant and often form large schools, making them an important food source for various marine predators. These fish are typically found in cool, coastal waters and are known for their rapid swimming and agility. They feed on plankton and small crustaceans, filtering them from the water using their specialized gill rakers. Sprats are commercially harvested for their culinary value, often smoked, canned, or used in various seafood dishes.